A new study carried out by a leading van insurer has found that many British tradespeople are not taking enough precautions to protect their vehicles and their tools.

The data compiled by Direct Line found that despite there being a commercial vehicle break-in every three minutes, a shocking 16% of owners do not properly lock their vehicles. The results also found that over 50% do not have an alarm and 42% do not have an immobiliser fitted.

A spokesman for Direct Line also noted that for the 36% of drivers who leave tools in their vehicles their no-claims bonus could well be affected in the event of a robbery.

"There are over 185,000 vans being broken into a year in the UK, and many drivers are making it an easy earner for thieves. The loss of your tools or stock can have a severe impact on your business." Said Simon Henrick from Direct Line van insurance.